Applied Double Haploid Scientist

About the role

The Applied Double Haploid Scientist will play a pivotal role in advancing breeding efficiency across corn and cereals through innovative, scalable doubled haploid (DH) technologies.

Responsibilities

• Optimize DH induction and production protocols for both corn and cereals, leading experimental design and process refinement.
• Develop novel methodologies for haploid identification and new DH protocols, enabling improved accuracy, throughput, and cross-crop applicability.
• Enhance chromosome doubling efficiency by optimizing plant regeneration media, tissue culture conditions, and doubling strategies across corn and cereals.
• Improve haploid seed quality and vigor through refined hardening, nursery practices, and early-stage plant management.
• Scale automated DH workflows, driving adoption of high-throughput, cost-efficient systems for both crop groups.
• Drive cost-reduction initiatives, implementing innovative solutions that increase productivity while maintaining quality and meeting KPI expectations.
• Integrate DH technologies into breeding programs, coordinating cohort schedules, delivery timelines, and technology deployment to accelerate genetic gain.
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams, comprising molecular biology, bioinformatics, automation engineering, digital, and product development, to deliver integrated DH solutions.
• Stay current with scientific advances, such as CRISPR applications in DH systems, novel haploid inducer development, improved tissue culture methods, and emerging chromosome doubling technologies.
• Ensure documentation, reporting, and FTO compliance, supporting IP generation and adherence to Syngenta’s Freedom to Operate guidelines.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Plant Science, Plant Breeding, Horticulture, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience developing or optimizing DH technologies in industry or academia, preferably in row crops.
• Demonstrated success reducing costs or improving efficiency in molecular biology or tissue culture workflows at scale.
• Expertise in plant tissue culture, plant regeneration, and growth management across lab, greenhouse, and field environments.
• Practical experience with aseptic techniques, plant dissection, media preparation, and growth regulator use.
• Deep understanding of molecular and physiological pathways influencing haploid induction and DH development in corn and cereals.
• Proficiency with imaging systems (light microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, digital imaging) for haploid identification.
• Familiarity with plant handling systems, such as embryo rescue, anther/microspore culture, and regeneration workflows.
• Working knowledge of genetic principles underlying maternal haploid induction systems and DH recovery.
• Understanding of key stages in row-crop variety development and commercialization.
• Experience analyzing and optimizing environmental conditions that influence DH system performance.

What We Offer

• A culture that celebrates belonging and collaboration, promotes professional development and strives for a work-life balance that supports the team members.
• Full Benefit Package (Medical, Dental & Vision) that starts your first day.
• 401k plan with company match, Profit Sharing & Retirement Savings Contribution.
• Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, Maternity and Paternity Leave, Education Assistance, Wellness Programs, Corporate Discounts, among other benefits.